In the realm of
nanotech materials, ferrofluids are unique in that their constituents are both
liquid and solid. True microsystems based on hydrodynamic principles of
ferrofluids may still be some years away. However, ferrofluids are already
contributing to nanotechnology, first as components of microproducts and second
by their utilization in processes engaged in fabrication of nanostructured
materials. This paper focuses on applications of ferrofluids, which are related
to the drive towards the new technology.